Real estate brokers showing 'Heart and Home' Oct. 1

CHILLICOTHE - What started out as a way for a national real estate company to give back is leading to a Chillicothe business giving back locally.

EXIT First Capital Realty is planning "Heart and Home," an event planned for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 1 at a rural setting at 14847 Ohio 772, just south of Chillicothe. The proceeds will benefit Scioto Valley Habitat for Humanity.

"Usually, EXIT would do a Habitat build in the city where the national convention was being held," said Bill Leib, broker and founder of the Chillicothe real estate agency. "They changed it to honor the small cities and help build those communities up. That's when we came up with the idea to do something in the community and help the local Habitat."

The event will feature entertainment include live much from Six to Noon, line dancing, a corn hole tournament, canvas painting sessions, lots of games for children and adults, food and much, much more. Registration and a sign-up fee are required for the corn hole tournament and canvas painting sessions.

"What we wanted to create was a big family picnic," said Leib, who is a three-time state Realtor of the Year. "We've gotten so much help from so many people, it's pretty incredible."

For example, Flying Pig BBQ will provide food and Brain Freeze Slushies will provide their icy concoctions. Both were contacted and jumped at the opportunity to be a part of the event, Leib said.

He's also quick to point that no one will make money from the event, except for Habitat. EXIT agents have donated much of the money for materials to make cornhole boards and many of the games that will be played on Oct. 1.

It's not the first time that EXIT Realty has helped the local Habitat. Two years ago, the home building charity had their tool trailer stolen and Leib helped secure a $7,500 donation to cover the costs of getting new tools. Last year, when a similar theft occurred, EXIT stepped up with another $7,500 check. Leib's wife, Suzanne, also served on the local Habitat board of directors.

"This is really the beginning," said Leib. "We want to make this an annual event to help Habitat and a lot of local families

If you go

EXIT Heart and Home

Saturday, Oct. 1, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

14847 Ohio 772, just south of Chillicothe.

Parking is $5, but there is no gate admission. Tickets will be $1 and $5 for games. Check exitheartandhome.com for more details on the costs for events.